School principals team up in Hampton parade 'miracle'

HAMPTON — It's not every day that an invitation to serve in the esteemed role of parade grand marshal is extended to a deserving individual.

Liz Premo

HAMPTON — It's not every day that an invitation to serve in the esteemed role of parade grand marshal is extended to a deserving individual.

So when five principals from schools in the town of Hampton were asked if they would accept the honor for this year's Christmas Parade, there was a certain element of surprise in store for each of them.

"I think all of us were taken aback. Usually it's a hero or somebody who's a public figure" that's chosen, said David O'Connor, principal at Hampton Academy. "We've got the best job going — we work with kids. To be given this honor is humbling."

"When I first saw the request, it was a surprise. Then I was honored," said Winnacunnet High School Principal Bill McGowan. "I told my family and friends; they were happy for me."

McGowan said he is glad for "this great opportunity" to take part in the parade, which is organized by Experience Hampton Inc. (EHI).

The growing line-up of floats, marching units, bands and other entries is scheduled to march along the three-mile parade route on Lafayette Road on Saturday, Dec. 1 beginning at 1 p.m.

This year's parade theme is "Sea the Miracles," which reflects the revitalization and economic boost involving the two "Miracle Miles" in both town and beach along Routes 1 and 1A.

The principals were contacted by Rusty Bridle, a member of both Experience Hampton Inc. and the Hampton School Board. He said it was "kind of a unanimous decision" on the part of EHI during the selection process back in October, especially in relation to miracles.

"We felt the five area principals are responsible for some of those miracles — the children of this town and this community," said Bridle. "They are part of the great things that are going on in this town and the great school system that we have."

The schools will be well represented by their own individual parade entries that will have both staff and students taking part. Marston School is no exception.

"I think it's a great opportunity to showcase the schools and the wonderful things that happen in (them)," said Marston Principal Lois Costa, adding that the school's "absolutely adorable" float will feature an octopus designed by art teacher Jenny Houston. "It's pretty special. We're excited."

It is apparent that Sacred Heart School Principal Mark Gillis feels the same way.

"We love being in Hampton. We've got a great relationship with the town," he said, noting that a number of organizations have used the SHS facility for various purposes over the last 50 years. "We know Hampton is good for us and we hope we're good for Hampton. We're glad to get out there and support the town."

While his fellow grand marshals are planning to march on Saturday, Gillis is unable to take part due to a scheduling conflict. However, SHS will be represented by Father Gary Kosmowski, the pastor of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Church.

"We're looking forward to being part of the parade," said Father Gary, noting that doing so is "a fun opportunity and a grand time in preparation for those events that are soon to be celebrated" throughout the Christmas season.

"We're glad to get out there and support the town and get the kids to sing a few songs (and) shine in the community," he added.

"I think it's nice that the schools and the town are part of this wonderful event," said Centre School Principal Tim Lannan. "It's a great way to blend the schools and the town. I look forward to it."

Regarding the "Sea the Miracles" theme, Bridle said there are plenty of miracles to be found in this coastal community.

"There's a lot of things in town that it could be," said Bridle. "It could be the miracles of Christmas; it can be the miracle of anything that goes on. Part of the miracle is the great things that are going on in this town and the great school system that we have. I think our principals define that, as people who are important to the healthiness and well-being of Hampton."

As for the grand marshals, they are gearing up for their participation in an event that has been growing annually since Experience Hampton Inc. was formed three years ago in order to bring the Christmas parade back to Hampton.

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